Alkali Metals

Question 2

Physical properties

Answer 2

• soft and can be cut by a knife
• have a low density
• have low melting points

Question 3

Chemical properties

Answer 3

They react vigorously with water to produce hydrogen gas and a metal hydroxide, forming an alkaline solution

Question 4

Uses

Answer 4

Lithium : used in rechargeable batteries for phones
Sodium : used in street lightning and as table salt
Potassium : essential for plant growth; used in fertilisers

Question 5

Tarnishing

Answer 5

When you cut a piece of alkali metal, it will be very shiny at first, but it will become duller as it reacts with oxygen, a metal oxide covers the outside of the metal